Renault Duster to entertain global audience

After tasting immense success in the Indian markets, feature packed Sports Utility Vehicle Renault Duster is ready to take part at next year's edition of the globally renowned off-road motor sporting Dakar Rally.

According to report on cartrade.com, the special version of Renault Duster's participation at Dakar Rally will entertain global audience. The French auto major, which has been instant hit with its Duster model in Indian passenger car market, enjoys the title of market leader in its segment.

The Dakar Rally is one of the most famous and peculiar off-road motor sporting race in the world. It is considered as the Mecca of SUV featuring motor sports organised on the demanding desert and arid terrains.

The report said: "Further, Renault SA, the French multinational automotive major, has revealed that two special Duster compact SUV's will battle it out for the pole position in the gruesome Dakar rally."

"The specially designed and assembled Renault Duster model for the race has been trimmed with a number of interesting modifications in its under-the-hood configuration, suspension system and drivetrain. Accordingly, the two super powerful Duster models will be powered by a 3.5 litre, V6 petrol motor, which could churn out an impressive peak power output close to 300 bhp. The drivetrain is going to feature an All Wheel Drive (AWD) configuration and the engine assembly is mated to a six speed sequential transmission system," the report added.

Renault India Pvt. Ltd., which a few months back announced new prices for Renault Duster, has carved a niche in the Indian passenger car market.

The SUV, which was first shown at the 2012 Indian Auto Expo, is available with a 1.6-liter petrol engine or a 1.5-liter diesel in two states of tune.

With cutting-edge technology like reverse-parking sensor, key-less entry with answer back function, on-board trip computer with multi-functional displays and rear defogger and wipers for better visibility, Renault Duster is at par with premium vehicles in terms of luxury.

Renault provides enhanced comfort with separate rear-AC with independent control considering the extreme hot weather conditions in India.

Its spacious interiors complement the grand vistas outside. The 8 way adjustable driver seat means that fatigue has a much lesser chance of overtaking one on a long drive. There is even a rear AC with independent controls for rear seat passengers.

The petrol variants of the new car are available for Rs.7,19,000 and Rs.8,19,000, whereas, the 83hp diesel variants come with price tags of Rs.7,99,000, Rs.8,99,000 and Rs.9,99,000.